Dining on a budget? We’ve got you covered with tips for affordable dishes, shareable plates, and how to spend smarter this summer.
The holiday decorations are back in their box, debit orders have gone off, and 2025 has arrived with its mix of fresh starts and tighter budgets.
With the start of the year and the summer season, many South Africans are left with happy memories, full hearts, and lighter wallets.
Along with resetting and reflecting, it’s about making every rand count. But saving doesn’t have to mean cutting all the joy out of life. In fact, embracing small treats can make all the difference in getting through the leanest month of the year.
When you’re watching your spending, dining out might seem like a luxury to skip. But a meal out can go a long way in lifting the gloom. It gives you the opportunity to connect with loved ones, take a break from cooking, or simply treat yourself after a long day.
The trick is to choose dining spots that strike a balance between indulgence and affordability. Ocean Basket’s new menu of budget-friendly seafood dishes makes treating yourself not only possible but practical.
Win a R500 voucher by entering our competition on Instagram & Facebook; alternatively you can also email us on info@food-blog.co.za with the subject line “Ocean Basket” and tell us which dish you will want to try first.
Here are some ideas to help you spend smart while still treating yourself:
- Plan intentional treats: Meal prep during the week, but set aside a day for an affordable meal out to look forward to. Ocean Basket’s Seafood Burgers and the Calamari Steak Strips & Crunchy Fish Bites Combo each clock in at under R100 for a great meal that doesn’t break the bank.
- Share the experience: Order shareable dishes to enjoy a variety of flavours at a fraction of the cost. Ocean Basket’s R84 Basket includes three panko prawns, panko zucchini, calamari heads, and its sushi platters can be split between two for a light meal.
- Prep for tomorrow: Choose mains that can double as tomorrow’s lunch. Ocean Basket’s Famous Fish & Chips and the Crispy Panko Fish with OB Select fish are R99 each and generously portioned, making it easy to save half for the next day. Pair the leftovers with a side salad or fresh bread, and you’ve got a delicious second meal without any extra effort or cost.
A little indulgence goes a long way and the start of the year doesn’t only have to be all about cutting back. With Ocean Basket’s budget-friendly menu, you can still enjoy the pleasures of dining out while keeping your spending in check.
For more information, visit the Ocean Basket website, their Instagram page, or Facebook page.
